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Analyzing Beneficial Effects of Nutritional Supplements on Intestinal Epithelial Barrier Functions During Experimental Colitis
Published on: January 5, 2017
Nonbiologic Immune Suppression in Ulcerative Colitis
Valérie Heron1, Edward V Loftus2
1Department of Gastroenterology, University of Montreal, Hopital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, 5415 Boulevard de l'Assomption, Montreal, Quebec H1I 2M4, Canada.
Abstract:
This article reviews nonbiologic immunosuppressive agents in the induction and maintenance of remission of ulcerative colitis. Based on meta-analyses and North American guidelines, azathioprine, mercaptopurine, and methotrexate monotherapy are not recommended for induction therapy. Thiopurines are recommended in combination with infliximab. Tofacitinib has been shown to be an effective induction agent. Cyclosporine or tacrolimus are calcineurin inhibitors that can be used as induction therapy. Thiopurine monotherapy is suggested or recommended as maintenance therapy for patients who have achieved steroid-induced remission. Methotrexate monotherapy is not recommended. Tofacitinib has been shown to be an effective maintenance agent in moderate to severe disease.
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Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, encompasses a group of disorders characterized by chronic inflammation or ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract.
Risk Factors
The exact cause of IBD remains unclear, although it is believed to be due to a mix of genetic, environmental, microbial, and immune factors. Genetic factors are significant in determining susceptibility to IBD, with family history being a critical risk factor. Individuals with a first-degree relative who has IBD are at...

